Amsterdam

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Amsterdam

With its characteristic canals (UNESCO World Heritage) surrounded by narrow, low, and crooked 17th-century houses, Amsterdam is, undoubtedly, one of the most charming capital cities in Europe. The rich cultural life and a wide range of entertainment make Amsterdam a full-scale city which has managed to retain its small-town feel. With over 50 museums, of which many are famous across the globe, this city is a real treat for art lovers: highlights include the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum.

Explore Amsterdam Amsterdam Metropolitan Area

Explore Amsterdam

Sign up for a tour or excursion to discover a side of Amsterdam you might never see on your own. For example, a canal cruise is an absolute must for every first-time visitor. Amsterdam’s fantastic architecture is best seen from a sightseeing boat on the canals. But Amsterdam is also a great city to explore by bike or on foot. Travel outside the city and experience the typically Dutch landscape of windmills, dikes and manicured green pastures. Stroll through quaint fishing villages, take a boat tour along the scenic waterways or cycle along the sand dunes. Be a savvy traveller and get to know the city of canals like a local with our free guide to Amsterdam. Check out the best cafes and restaurants, get ideas for things to do and see every day of your trip and don’t miss out on the nightlife.

Amsterdam Metropolitan Area

For the visitors who have already seen the beautiful canals, visited the highlights, pioneered the Jordaan neighbourhood and got the hang of the never-ending nightlife, here’s news for you: there is plenty more to experience. The vast Amsterdam Metropolitan Area offers a great variety of products and activities: beaches, shopping centres, history museums and much more. All of these attractions are within an hour's reach using public transportation.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Scenic canals, cosy bars and cafés combine with architectural masterpieces to make Amsterdam one of Europe's most beautiful cities. Take an unforgettable journey through this charming Dutch capital. The Rijksmuseum houses countless works of art, the Van Gogh Museum features 600 pieces by the famous artist, and the Anne Frank House gives you an insight into life in the Second World War. Each has its own unique story, but they all show how magnificent Amsterdam can be.

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the largest and most important museum in the Netherlands. It boasts a collection of nearly 8,000 pieces spread over 80 galleries. Dive into the history of Dutch art and marvel at the magnificent oeuvres from medieval times through the Golden Age. See iconic paintings by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and …

Jordaan

The Jordaan is a neighbourhood of the city centre of Amsterdam, west of Prinsengracht canal. Originally a working-class neighbourhood, the Jordaan has become one of the most expensive, upscale and desirable locations in the country. It is home to gorgeous historical residential buildings with cute hofjes (inner courtyards), numerous modern art galleries, speciality shops, …

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum offers an immersive look at the painter's masterpieces, from the iconic "Sunflowers" to "The Bedroom" and "The Potato Eaters". It presents his paintings, sketchbooks and letters, and documents the evolution of his art, reflecting on themes like love and hope, anxiety and suffering. This venue also highlights his influence on …

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is the hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary during World War II. Now a museum, it recreates the war and holocaust years. Quotations from the diary, photographs, films and original objects belonging to the people in hiding and those who helped them all serve to illustrate the …

Day Trip to Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken from Amsterdam

Discover the jewels of the Dutch countryside on a fun day trip to Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam, and Marken leaving from Amsterdam. See typical Dutch windmills that are still in use today. Visit a local cheese producer, where the cheese master will explain how they produce Gouda and Edam cheeses. Discover the secrets of the …

De Wallen

Every visitor is aware of the existence of Amsterdam's red light district, locally referred to as De Wallen. Some head there straightaway while others prefer to walk around it — the choice is yours. The truth is, you will likely end up wandering through the area simply because of its location right in the …

Jewish Historical Museum & Jewish Cultural Quarter

When visiting the Jewish Quarter, make sure to make time for its several attractions — the Jewish Historical Museum, Children's Museum, the Great Synagogue and the Dutch Theatre (Hollandsche Schouwburg). All of these are located within a short walking distance from one …

Amsterdam Open Boat Canal Cruise

Admire the sights along Amsterdam's UNESCO World Heritage canals on a 1-hour luxury boat ride. Get comfortable in your seat, grab a drink from the cash bar, and enjoy the scenic ride through several of the city's landmarks like the Museum Quarter and the infamous Red Light …

Royal Palace

The Koninklijk Paleis (Royal Palace) on Amsterdam’s Dam Square is one of three palaces still in use by the Dutch royal family. When not used for state visits, award ceremonies or other official functions, visitors can explore the magnificent interior and discover the rich history of the …

Heineken Experience

The former Heineken Brewery in Amsterdam offers some 3000 square metres of special exhibition space. Learn more about Heineken's rich history, the tradition and craft of brewing, and the people behind this multinational company in this monumental building located at the Stadhouderskade. Good to know: two drinks are included in the admission …

Negen Straatjes

The Negen Straatjes (nine little streets) intersect the main canals between the Leidsestraat and the Jordaan district, and are dotted with great restaurants, cafes, art galleries, jewellers, boutiques and vintage stores. With an exceptional array of styles, trends and prices, this area is truly a shopper’s …

Vondelpark

The Vondelpark is one of the most popular parks in the Amsterdam, right next to the Rijksmuseum. Locals and tourists alike come here to spend some time in the sun, play games together, bike, stroll hand-in-hand, read a book or simply enjoy the serene ambiance that this cosy park has to offer. It is …

Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

You won’t see so many celebrities gathered together anywhere else. From film stars to sporting heroes, from the Golden Age to modern times, national and international artists, Madame Tussauds truly has something for …

A'dam Tower

A'dam is the iconic and controversial tall building next to the Eye Film Institute and opposite Central Station. It calls itself "a tower of many talents": you can grab a bite, work in a coworking space, rave at the club and spend the night at the hotel here. The tower hosts some major creative …

Rembrandt House Museum

The Rembrandt House Museum will be interesting for people who want to know more about the painter’s life, his work and about the Dutch Golden Age in general. The painter lived and worked in the house between 1639 and 1656 and these days visitors can see the reconstruction of the 17th-century interior. In addition to …

Westergas

Once the city's gasworks, the late 19th-century industrial buildings of Westergas are now one of Amsterdam's most vibrant creative hubs. At its core, Westergas is an event venue surrounded by hip tempting bars, restaurants, coffee roasters, an artisanal microbrewery, a small arthouse cinema, and a whole lot of creative …

Hortus Botanicus

Hortus Botanicus is one of the world's oldest botanical gardens established in 1638 as an herb garden with medicinal plants for Amsterdam doctors and pharmacists. The plants were brought here from all over the world by the traders of the Dutch East India Company (VOC). Today, Hortus Botanicus holds more than 6,000 different plants, …

Diamond Museum

Located in the city centre, the Amsterdam Diamond Museum grants visitors an insight into the development of diamond production (from billions of years ago to modern times), and showcases some rare exhibits such as the incredible Rembrandt Diamond, the Katana and the Ape …

New Church

The New Church (or Nieuwe Kerk) isn't just a regular 15th-century church. It played an important role throughout history, and hosted the inaugurations of multiple Dutch kings and queens. Today's royalty — the Dutch king and queen — exchanged vows here, too. These days the church frequently hosts various …

Amsterdam Noord’s Renovated Shipyard (NDSM)

NDSM, the renovated shipyard in Amsterdam Noord is a live music performance space with a strong industrial vibe. The complex houses creative businesses, small workshops, clubs, bars and eateries. Take one of Amsterdam's free ferries and come here for hip waterside hangouts, frequent festivals and events. The famed Botel and Crane Hotel Faralda are located …

Amsterdam Museum

The Amsterdam Museum tells the compelling story of the growth and heyday of the Dutch capital. Discover seven centuries of the city's history — once a small settlement on the banks of the Amstel, and now a bustling, diverse metropolis. The rich collection of works of art, objects and archaeological finds brings to life …

Singel Flower Market

The Singel Flower Market is one of Amsterdam’s most colourful attractions. The small shops are located inside a row of floating barges — a holdover from the days when the flowers arrived in Amsterdam every day from the countryside by boat. At the flower market you’ll find tulips of every colour — either in …

National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum invites its visitors to discover how the Dutch culture has been shaped by the sea. The building has been completely restored and modernised, the courtyard now covered by a glass roof. The museum includes a restaurant, a waterside terrace and even a replica of the Dutch East India Company ship …

Amsterdam Dungeon

The Amsterdam Dungeon brings 500 years of dark history to life with 12 shows, 7 actors and 1 terrifying experience. Can you survive the horrific plague during the 80 minute tour? Make sure you don’t get tortured by the executioner Peter Titelmann from the Spanish Inquisition or get lost in the mirror labyrinth. There …

H'ART Museum (formerly Hermitage Amsterdam)

H'ART Museum, situated along the Amstel river in Amsterdam, showcases a diverse array of global art and stories. Unique exhibitions, ranging from world-renowned collections to innovative displays, are featured in this iconic location. Once affiliated with Saint Petersburg's Hermitage Museum, H'ART now stands independently. Housed in the historic Amstelhof, a classic 1681 edifice, the …

Museum of the Canals

A visit to Het Grachtenhuis (the Canal House) is the perfect way to learn more about the history of Amsterdam’s canal ring. The museum looks at the 17th-century city expansion projects that led to Amsterdam’s ring of canals which received UNESCO world heritage status in 2010. After seeing the interactive displays, you’ll look at …

EYE Film Institute Netherlands

The EYE Film Institute screens classic and art-house movies on a daily basis. If you love films and cinematography, be sure to visit this new ultramodern building along the IJ waterway, which is home to an internationally-renowned collection of films covering the whole history of cinema. The museum’s extensive programme includes exhibitions and events …

Artis Royal Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in all of Europe, Artis Royal Zoo contains multiple species of land and marine animals, as well as an aquarium and a planetarium. The zoo grounds invite for a pleasant stroll among the trees and give the visitors the opportunity to admire a myriad of animals ranging from chimps …

Frans Hals Museum

Haarlem’s Frans Hals Museum is home to the largest collection of paintings by Frans Hals in the world. Hals, the most famous Haarlem painter of the Golden Age, specialised in portraits. In addition to paintings by Hals, the museum has works by his predecessors and his contemporaries, as well as furniture, ceramics, glass and …

Het Concertgebouw

Built in 1888, the Concertgebouw is a world-famous concert hall located in the city centre. Take a guided tour and discover some of the hidden areas of this magnificent building, such as the backstage and the attic above the Main Hall, while listening to some interesting …

Amsterdam Exchange Experience

The famous Amsterdam Exchange index (AEX) throws open its doors to the public with this new attraction taking visitors on an exciting interactive journey from the beginnings of the Dutch East India Company right through to today's modern electronic trading …

NEMO

NEMO is the largest science centre in the Netherlands. With five floors full of exciting things to do and discover, this is the perfect place for anyone with an inquisitive mind. Exhibitions, theatre performances, films, workshops and demonstrations: you will smell, hear, feel and see how the world …

Allard Pierson Museum

Allard Pierson Museum narrates stories of ancient civilisations via informative displays which include artefacts from the Great Roman Empire, ancient Egypt, ancient Greece, Etruria, and Near East. This archaeological museum is sponsored by the University of …

Dining

Looking for a quick snack, a refreshing drink, or a romantic three-course dinner? Amsterdam has all of that and more. From grand cafes and historic watering holes to Michelin stars and the best seasonal produce, keep reading for tips on where to have a memorable meal or drink in Amsterdam.

Kitchen & Bar Van Rijn

Kitchen & Bar Van Rijn on the Rembrandtplein is inspired by the beauty and the masterpieces of Rembrandt van Rijn. In a cosmopolitan atmosphere with an open kitchen, you can enjoy authentic Dutch cuisine for lunch and dinner. At weekends there is even live music and a …

Teppanyaki Restaurant Sazanka

Michelin-starred restaurant Sazanka at Hotel Okura invites to a dinner and a show — skilled chefs prepare the finest Japanese dishes right before guests' eyes. The extensive menu features meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. Book in advance to ensure being …

Omelegg

The first Dutch omelettery offers a great selection of egg-based dishes for breakfast, lunch, or weekend brunch. Omelettes come in a plethora of varieties, from BBQ to banana & peanut butter. Fresh juices and an assortment of hot and cold drinks are …

Foodhallen

The impressive food court housed inside De Hallen contains 47 international restaurants, with offerings ranging from dim sum to steaks to tacos. Some reputable local restaurants have branches here. The common dining area is always buzzing, and live DJ sets are hosted Friday and Saturday …

Restaurant Olijfje

At the restaurant Olijfje, Mediterranean meat or fish delicacies will be prepared for you on the restaurant's charcoal grill. In the meantime, you can start off your dinner experience with some Spanish tapas, Mediterranean meze, Turkish feta cheese or Greek …

De Kas

De Kas is a chic garden conservatory serving Mediterranean dishes. This restaurant housed in a collection of greenhouses that date to 1926 serves a fixed daily menu prepared with vegetables and herbs grown in their own nursery. Their motto is "Harvested in the morning, on your plate in the …

Ciel Bleu

Chefs Onno Kokmeijer and Arjan Speelman and their team will serve you daring original dishes inspired by French cuisine while you take in the panoramic view of Amsterdam. A selection of classic and innovative wines completes this unparalleled culinary experience. The restaurant is the proud holder of two Michelin …

Moeders

Moeders is characterized by an informal atmosphere and friendly service and is known for several Dutch specialities (beef stew, Flemish stew and stamppot), but there are plenty of other things to choose from the extensive international menu. The walls here are filled with hundreds of framed and unframed pictures along with antique pans, plates …

IJ-kantine

The IJ-Kantine is more than just a canteen on the IJ. This striking and transparent brasserie with its fabulous terrace on the NDSM harbour has just about everything: in the morning you can go there for coffee, during the day you can have a royal lunch, in the evening enjoy a cocktail next to …

The Pancake Bakery

A cosy pancake house (former warehouse) located in a 17th-century Dutch East India Company canal house at the Prinsengracht in Amsterdam. The famous 'international' pancakes are based on various dishes from all over the world. Both sweet and savoury varieties are …

Momo

Located in the Park Hotel and not far from the Leidseplein, the ultra cosmopolitan Momo has been decorated in such a way that Amsterdam’s in-crowd and visiting international beauties don’t look out of place. This cafe-restaurant boasts some of the best chefs and barmen from all over the world. Come here and try their …

Cafés

Whether you're after soaking up the atmosphere of a traditional Dutch brown café, lounging in a city's luxurious grand café, enjoying a summer drink on one of the city's many terraces, or checking out the thriving bar scene, Amsterdam is the perfect place to enjoy a tipple.

De Koffieschenkerij

Located in the Old Church, the oldest building of Amsterdam, this coffee bar serves daily breakfast, organic coffee, tea, hand-made pies and freshly baked cakes to be enjoyed in a relaxing and historical ambiance. For the ones who prefer other refreshments, homemade lemonade and fresh juices are also on the …

Café de Jaren

Café de Jaren is one of the largest cafes in Amsterdam. The building features a spacious cafe on the ground floor with an international press reading-table, a pleasant restaurant with large salad bar on the first floor, as well as a superb terrace with a canal …

Melly's Cookies Bar

If you would like to treat yourself, Melly's Cookies Bar pairs sweet recipes from Latin America with traditional Dutch specialities. Get yourself a Dutch stroopwafel with different toppings, a cookie, a piece of cake or try one of the Argentinian alfajores or some dulce de leche alongside a cup of coffee or traditional mate …

Café de Prins

Across from the Westerkerk (Western Church) and the Anne Frank House, on the edge of the Jordaan, this cafe is surrounded by history. Although the Prins has retained its typical 'brown cafe' character, its kitchen has become one of its most important features in recent years. Stop by for beer, fondue and cheese plates, …

Proeflokaal 't Blauwe Theehuis

This unusual construction in the centre of the 19th century Vondelpark and its large surrounding terrace (700 places) attracts crowds of creative Amsterdammers at the first ray of sunshine. You can even enjoy yourself here in the winter–thanks to the outdoor electric heaters. Proeflokaal 't Blauwe Theehuis offers craft beers, breakfasts, and pizza. And …

Winkel 43

Winkel 43 stands not only for a friendly atmosphere, but also for its straightforward menu served for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Spend some time on the terrace and enjoy a piece of their homemade apple pie while absorbing the surroundings of the Jewish quarter …

Screaming Beans

The Screaming Beans will make sure to find the best coffee blend in their assortment to match your individual taste. Relish one of the carefully sourced and roasted single origin coffees (or the cafe's own house blend), together with a croissant, on their …

Bars & Nightlife

The dance clubs in Amsterdam might feel too small for somebody who is used to flashy clubs in NY, LA, or London, but don't worry — they can be just as entertaining and delightfully crazy. Hip, laid-back or sophisticated — the choice is yours.

Canvas

Located on the 7th floor of the former office building of the Volkskrant newspaper, this club/cafe/restaurant is characterised by an easy-going vibe. Canvas is renowned for its affordable yet lush cocktails and a stunning view of Amsterdam which, in the summer can be taken in fully from the spacious roof …

Panama

As well as being a nightclub with great theatre shows, live music and popular club evenings, Panama also offers a trendy dance studio and a cafe-restaurant with a grand terrace to the south for those mid-summer nights. It frequently hosts renowned DJs from all over the …

Boom Chicago

This American comedy troupe is renowned for their English-language comedy, theatrical shows, improvisation, stand-up and burlesque. Improvisation comedy, good food and tasty cocktails have long been Boom Chicago’s recipe for success. This venue, which also features a bar and a restaurant, is regularly transformed into a nightclub with local electro and house DJs filling …

Karaokebar 24K

For a fun night out, especially with a group of people, the Karaokebar 24K is a location to uncover hidden talents or to simply enjoy singing along to one of your favourite songs. Fetch yourself a drink and choose one of more than 80,000 songs, available in several …

The Waterhole

Find The Waterhole in the centre of Amsterdam and listen to live music in different genres (but mostly rock) every day, play pool or ask the staff to turn on your desired sports match on one of the 7 available screens. Make sure to join the daily happy hours for cheaper beer and mixed …

Cafe de Druif

Cafe de Druif — ‘The Grape’ — has been a local institution for at least 400 years. Wooden casks line the walls and plenty of earthenware jenever bottles can be found behind the bar. Virtually unknown to tourists, De Druif feels like a glimpse into Amsterdam’s …

XtraCold IceBar

The name says it all: everything in the XtraCold IceBar is made of ice. The walls, the bar, the couch, the fireplace and even the glasses. When entering the bar, you are given special clothing to cope with the icy cold temperature. The beautiful ice sculptures by world-famous artists provide the ultimate ice …

AIR

Raised from the ashes of legendary club iT, AIR's interior design features a host of surprises, and the theatrical, intimate result is a feast for the senses. Each area has its own style and feel, which lends an extra dimension to exploring the …

De Trut

De Trut is a queer disco that has been organised 100% by volunteers for more than 35 years. The profits from the parties go to LGBTQAI+ projects worldwide. The party is held every Sunday evening from 10pm. Expect a long line, but it's definitely worth the …

Bourbon Street

Bourbon Street Blues Club is hard to miss when strolling down Leidsekruisstraat — the Blues Brothers are dancing on the roof. The program here ranges from rock to soul and even reggae, with live music every night of the week. Over the years, this amazing venue has hosted many local and international artists, including …

Supper Club & Restaurant

If you are looking for an unusual dinner experience in an unexpected place and are not afraid to discover the creative corners of your personality, then knock on Supper's door. Freedom is the keyword at Supper. It’s a mix of food, music, performances and …

Escape

One of Amsterdam’s biggest and most popular nightclubs, situated on the lively Rembrandtplein, Escape is always teaming with pretty young things. Musically speaking, expect all popular styles of dance music: house, electro, techno and pop by both Amsterdam’s finest and world-famous DJ like Tiësto, Kevin Saunderson and Todd …

Paradiso

Paradiso has been a centre for pop culture since the 1960s. Today, after thousands and thousands of concerts, the pop venue has reached worldwide recognition. Though national and international pop music is the primary focus, programming has now been expanded to include other disciplines such as classical, world music, festivals and spoken …

Melkweg

Located in the bustling heart of Amsterdam, the Melkweg is one of the city's leading entertainment venues with two halls, a cinema, a theatre and a cafe. The venue offers a varied live programme ranging from up-and-coming bands to established names, and seated concerts as …

Shopping

Whether you're searching for the best souvenir, a unique vintage dress or the latest designer handbag, Amsterdam has the perfect shop for you. Hunt for antiques, score some limited-edition trainers or sample local Dutch delicacies: you can find it all in Amsterdam. Besides the main shopping streets, Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat, home to all the shops you would expect to find in a large European city, Amsterdam has a lot to offer to the luxury shopper. De Bijenkorf department store and Magna Plaza shopping centre are two of the best spots in town for upmarket items. Furthermore, the Spiegelkwartier will fulfil your desire for antiques, while the neighbourhood markets open their doors to budget-conscious shoppers.